Are you afraid to use your bike because of thieves? Here are some tips to help prevent your bike from being stolen (besides always parking with us of course!):

First, the Basics:

Security: The most important thing is to lock your bike to a secure object.

Visibility: It is better if you park your bike in open areas where many people pass by and it is easily seen.

Keep it close by: The closer your bike is to you, the easier it is to keep an eye on it.

Register your bike’s serial number: Write down the serial number and keep it in a safe place. Then register your bike on the 529 Garage to have a proof of ownership of your bike. Check how this project works on our page “The 529 Project” .

Give it identifying marks: You can engrave your name or driver’s license number on the bike frame, or put a card with your name and phone number inside the handlebar or seat tube.

Avoid having a quick release seat or wheels on your bike. Replace the quick release at your local bike shop.

Have photos of your bike to prove it’s yours.

Secondly, Carry the Right Lock:

Talk to your local bicycle store about the right lock for you and your bicycle.

There are different types of locks:

U-locks: make sure you buy a strong hardened steel lock.

Padlocks & chains: the thicker, the better, should be at least 3/8 of an inch thick.

Cables: you can use a double-looped cable with your U-lock, for additional security.

Thirdly, Be sure That You Lock Your Bike Correctly:

Lock the whole bike: put your chain, cable, or U-locks through your frame and both wheels. Try to lock two separate points of your bike.

Cross locking: use more than one kind of lock.

Make it difficult to break a lock: it’s better if the lock is not too close to a wall or to the side walk.

Secure removal items: remove any parts you can’t lock and a thief could steal easily.

Video from Vancouver Police Department on best way to lock up your bike: